Nikon D3300: Hands-on with Nikon’s DSLR answer to the growing mirrorless trend

For a while now, the technology spotlight for cameras has focused on mirrorless advances and smartphones. While high-end DSLRs have continued to make improvements, entry-level models that provide most DSLR sales have struggled to compete with the impressive line-ups of smaller mirrorless models like the Sony NEX product family. With the D3300, Nikon has put its decades of experience in camera design to good use in creating a model that is smaller and better than previous entry-level DSLRs, but at the same time making it easier to handle and use. Will it be able to turn the tide?

At $650 for camera plus zoom lens, the D3300 is value-priced, but has imaging specs very similar to its more expensive cousins. It features a 24MP sensor that will shoot at up to 5 fps and its ISO can be bumped to 12,800. It doesn’t have the more solid build quality of Nikon’s pro and prosumer models, of course, but feels well-built and is great in your hands. As with the D7100 and D800E, Nikon has removed the anti-aliasing filter to provide as much resolution as possible from the relatively small pixels. The camera body itself weighs under a pound, and the new, smaller 18-55mm lens that comes with it only adds another 7 ounces (200 grams).

The magic is in the new image processor

As Nikon’s tech rep walked me through some of the features on the camera, especially compared to the earlier D3200, he couldn’t stress enough how many of the camera’s advances were the result of upgrading to a new image processing chip. The new generation EXPEED 4 bumps the frame rate from 4 to 5, allows for full 1080p video capture at 60 fps, improves the camera’s low-light performance, and produces higher-quality in-camera JPEGs than its predecessor.

The one place where Nikon didn’t try to make the camera smaller is the grip. The grip actually comes out further than on other similar models, with plenty of room to get your fingers between the grip and the lens.Casual shooters who hold a camera at arm’s length and use the LCD may not notice a big difference, but for anyone shooting through the viewfinder or who enjoys being able to quickly grab and aim their camera, the enhanced grip makes the D3300 a joy to use. Frankly, I look forward to the eventual day where even top-end, full-frame, cameras can be as much fun to maneuver as the D3300 was when I played with it in the Nikon booth at CES. It and its “kit” zoom lens are just about the perfect size and shape for street photography.

The D3300 won’t put a dent in the move to smartphones

While the D3300 looks like it will be a great new entry-level product for Nikon, and its Guide mode will be a valuable learning tool for new shooters, it is unlikely to stop the move to smartphones by those who value ease of sharing over pure image quality and handling. The camera does not include GPS — a shame when GPS chip sets are so inexpensive — and wireless connectivity continues to require an optional adapter that sticks out the side of the camera.

Matching 18-55mm zoom lens completes the picture

One of the big ergonomic issues with small cameras that use relatively large sensors — like Sony’s NEX line that uses APS-C-sized images — is balance. Any type of zoom lens unbalances the camera body, over weighting it toward the lens and making it awkward to hold — especially for long periods of time. Nikon has thoughtfully introduced a new, smaller, version of its 18-55mm zoom lens that is perfect for use with the D3300, and comes as part of the camera kit. Despite its small size, the new lens features a fast AF-S focus motor as well as 4-stop image stabilization (VR).

When the camera and lens ship in February, they’re likely to be very popular with those looking for an entry into serious photography who want to work their way into a time-tested product line like Nikon’s. There is something about having a true optical viewfinder that still appeals to purists, and is likely to keep the DSLR market segment alive despite the increasing popularity of mirrorless cameras.